Genoa isn’t just about bustling streets and historic sights—it’s also a fantastic place to learn how to cook authentic Ligurian cuisine. The city’s rich culinary traditions are alive in every corner, and many local chefs and families open their kitchens for visitors eager to get a taste of regional flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, Genoa offers a variety of cooking classes that bring you close to the heart of Ligurian food culture. I personally love experiences like the Genoese cooking lesson in the garden for its blend of hands-on learning and stunning setting—imagine making fresh pasta and pesto in a beautiful garden with views over the port, then sitting down for a leisurely lunch.
If you prefer a more personalized experience, the private Cooking Class & Meal with a Local allows you to learn traditional Ligurian dishes directly from a local host in an intimate setting. For those wanting to dive deeper into home-style cooking, the Genoa: Hands-On Home Cooking Class offers a cozy atmosphere with authentic recipes like gnocchi and pesto, shared with a small group. Whichever option fits your style, Genoa’s cooking classes promise a memorable taste of Italy’s culinary soul.
1. Genoese cooking lesson in the with lunch in the terrace
At number 1 on our list, the Genoese cooking lesson with lunch in the terrace is a standout for its combination of authentic cooking and a stunning setting. For just around $80, you’ll get to know local ingredients and culinary traditions—making pasta and pesto from scratch, just like Ligurian cooks have done for generations. The experience lasts about 3 hours and 15 minutes, and the highlight is preparing two types of pasta and fresh pesto, then enjoying a delicious meal in a beautiful garden overlooking the port and sea.
Guests praise Alessandro’s thorough explanations and the garden’s charm, adding that the small group and relaxed atmosphere make it feel more like cooking with friends than a class. The lunch is served al fresco, enhancing the authentic vibe, and local wines complement the meal perfectly. The reviews emphasize how accessible and enjoyable the recipes are, even for vegetarians. This class is ideal for anyone who wants a professional yet friendly introduction to Ligurian cuisine with the bonus of a memorable setting.
Bottom Line: This is a top pick for those seeking a comprehensive, scenic, and hands-on cooking experience in Genoa with plenty of delicious food and lovely views.
2. Cooking Class & Meal with a Local in Genoa
At number 2, this private Cooking Class & Meal with a Local offers a more personalized, immersive experience. For about $167, you’ll learn to make Ligurian specialties directly from a local host, focusing on hands-on techniques. The class lasts around 3 hours, during which you’ll prepare several regional dishes, and then sit down to a meal paired with regional wines. The private setting is perfect for couples or small groups looking for an intimate, authentic experience.
Reviews highlight the warm hospitality of Tiziana and her husband Roberto, as well as the delicious dishes—guests often mention it as a “favorite experience.” The location can be a little tricky to find, so arriving a few minutes early helps. The fact that you leave with an apron and a reusable shopping bag makes this class a great gift or souvenir of your trip.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a personalized, authentic cooking experience and enjoy friendly conversation, this class is hard to beat.
3. Genoa: Hands-On Home cooking Class Pasta Pesto and more with wine
Number 3 is the Genoa: Hands-On Home Cooking Class, offering a cozy, family-style vibe perfect for those who want a relaxed but educational experience. For around $113, you learn how to make gnocchi, filled gnocchi, and Genoese pesto using traditional tools like a mortar and pestle. Silvia and Alessandra create a welcoming atmosphere in their home, where you can ask questions and learn traditional techniques.
Guests rave about the ability to ask their host questions and the warmth of the interaction, describing it as more like cooking with friends than a formal class. The meal is enjoyed with wine, focaccia, and coffee, making for a full, satisfying experience. The class’s emphasis on from-scratch techniques and natural ingredients sets it apart.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers seeking an authentic, small-group experience that emphasizes traditional Ligurian cooking in a friendly setting.
4. With Tiziana Cooking Class for Pesto, Gnocchi and Tiramisù
Number 4 features the With Tiziana Cooking Class in a historic 17th-century palace, led by a certified pesto expert. For about $139, you spend roughly two hours mastering pesto, gnocchi, and tiramisù, all with Tiziana’s clear guidance. Her expertise ensures you’ll learn the secrets of making the best pesto using traditional techniques, including mortar and pestle.
Reviews highlight the authenticity and fun of the experience, especially the opportunity to learn from a highly knowledgeable chef. Many mention the delicious takeaway—especially the tiramisù—and the elegant setting makes this class feel special. The intimate atmosphere lets you ask questions and enjoy a high-quality, culture.
Bottom Line: If you want to learn classic Ligurian dishes from a certified expert in a historic setting, this class hits the mark.
5. Dining experience with cooking demo and wines in Rapallo
Number 5 offers a Dining experience with a cooking demo and wines in Rapallo. For $97, you’ll enjoy a 4-course meal in a private home after a short demonstration of Ligurian cooking techniques. The experience lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes, with the host Elisa guiding you through dishes like pasta with pesto, eggplant Parmesan, and more, all paired with regional wines.
Guests love how welcoming Elisa’s family is, describing the meal as “spectacular” and the atmosphere as like visiting friends. The focus on local, homemade dishes and the chance to ask questions make this a good choice for travelers who want a meaningful cultural experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting food and wine paired with warm hospitality in a cozy, private setting.
6. Dining Experience at a local’s Home in Santa Margherita Ligure
Number 6 is a Home dining experience in Santa Margherita Ligure. For $122, you get to watch a local chef prepare Ligurian dishes, then sit down to a family-style meal paired with regional wines. The experience lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes and offers exclusive access to a private home kitchen.
Reviewers mention how welcoming and warm the hosts are, describing the meal as “amazing” and the setting as “beautiful.” This is a great choice for travelers wanting an authentic, intimate home-cooked meal with the added bonus of learning cooking techniques directly from a local family.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who value personal connections and authentic family recipes in a relaxed atmosphere.
7. Gourmet Cooking Lesson
Finally, number 7 is a Gourmet Cooking Lesson based in Rapallo. For about $243, this high-end class features chef-led instruction in a top restaurant. You’ll learn to make traditional Ligurian pesto and other regional dishes, then enjoy a multi-course lunch with local wines. The class is small—max six participants—ensuring plenty of personalized attention.
Reviewers appreciate the professional setting and the opportunity to learn cooking techniques that can be recreated at home. The experience combines culinary education with fine dining, making it ideal for food connoisseurs seeking a luxury learning experience with a cultural twist.
Bottom Line: This is a great pick for serious food lovers who want a gourmet, chef-led class with a memorable meal in a high-class environment.
How to Choose the Best Cooking Class in Genoa
When selecting your perfect Genoa cooking experience, consider your budget, time, and culinary interests. If you’re after a scenic, hands-on introduction to pasta and pesto, the Genoese cooking lesson in the garden offers excellent value and a memorable setting. For a more personalized, private experience, the Cooking Class & Meal with a Local is ideal, especially if you want to learn in an intimate environment. If you prefer home-style cooking with a small group, the Hands-On Home Cooking Class gives you authentic recipes in a friendly setting.
For those looking for a more refined, historic experience, Tiziana’s Cooking Class in a 17th-century palace combines cultural elegance with culinary mastery. Lastly, if you want to combine cooking with regional wines and a relaxed atmosphere, the dining experiences in Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure are fantastic options.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and time. Consider your interest level—whether you’re after a quick, fun class or a deep dive into Ligurian cooking—and choose accordingly.
Genoa’s cooking classes cater to a range of interests, from simple pasta making to gourmet chef experiences. Whether you want to learn family recipes, enjoy a private home meal, or indulge in culinary luxury, this city offers memorable ways to connect with its flavors. Each experience promises a taste not just of food, but of the local culture and warmth that make Genoa truly special. Make sure to book ahead, and get ready to bring some of that Ligurian magic back home with you.